If you or a loved one requires legal representation for obtaining visas, green cards, citizenship, adjustment of status, or stopping deportation, our experienced Los Angeles immigration attorneys may be able to help.

Violence Against Women Act (“VAWA”) Immigration Petitions

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) allows a battered immigrant spouse, child or parent of either gender to file an immigration petition without their abuser's knowledge. If approved, a VAWA petition lets the applicant work in the United States and become a legal permanent resident (“green card” holder).

4. How do I file a petition under VAWA?

Someone who is living abroad at the time of filing may use Form I-360 if:

The abuser is an employee of the U.S. government,

The abuser is a member of the armed services, or

The victim was subjected to battery or extreme cruelty in the United States.

5. How long does it take to get an answer?

Within 150 days of filing (approximately 5 months), the petitioner will usually receive a Prima Facie Determination Notice. The notice can be presented to government agencies that provide public benefits to victims of domestic violence.

6. What happens if my petition is approved?

If the petitioner does not have legal immigration status in the United States, the USCIS may place the petitioner in “deferred action.” This will allow the petitioner to remain in the United States and not be subject to deportation.

Children listed on their parent's approved Form I-360 may also apply for work authorization and a green card.

It costs $0 to file for VAWA relief for a battered spouse, parent or child

9. Where else can I get help if I am a battered spouse, child or parent?

Help for victims of domestic violence is available from the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or 1-800-787-3224 (TDD). The hotline has information about shelters, mental health care, legal advice and other types of assistance.

10. About the Violence Against Women Act

VAWA is federal law originally passed in 1994 as part of the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994. VAWA provides protection to battered immigrant spouses and helps revise social practices and laws that allow violence against battered spouses and children.

The provisions of VAWA are permanent and do not require congressional re-authorization. Among its provisions, VAWA includes landmark protections for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking.

It strengthens federal penalties for rapes and mandates that victims not be forced to bear the expense of their own rape exams. It also requires that protective be recognized in all U.S. states.

VAWA is not the only immigration relief that may be available for victims of domestic or sexual violence. Our California immigration lawyers may also be able to help you obtain asylum, a “U” visa for crime victims, temporary protected status, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals ("DACA") relief, relief under the Child Status Protection Act, or a provisional unlawful presence waiver.

Need help with a VAWA petition or appeal? Call us…

Call us for help at (855) LAW-FIRM

If you or someone you know is an immigrant and a victim of domestic or sexual violence, we invite you to contact us for a free consultation.

Our caring and experienced Los Angeles, California immigration attorneys may be able to help you stay in the United States through a VAWA petition, “U” visa or other program.

To speak confidentially to a lawyer call us at (855) LAWFIRM or fill out the form on this page.

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